Given the very specific involvement of manga creator Oda Eiichiro in developing this tenth film, on the occasion of the tenth anniversary of the anime, it's safe to say that high expectations were riding on its shoulders. As even the first ten minutes ramp up the wild, far-flung fancifulness to a preposterous level hitherto unseen, it's clear that Oda and all others involved were going all-out with this production to make it the most ridiculous, flavor-loaded representation yet of the franchise's swirl of fantasy, adventure, action, and comedy. That sense never really diminishes, assuring that in every capacity 'Strong world' is kind of just plain outrageous as everyone's imaginations were allowed to run free with abandon. The result is often sort of intense, in its own way - but golly, is it fun! In no small part suggesting a "devil may care" attitude of "just go for it," this 'One Piece' picture is a dazzling ride that just doesn't let up.
In a mystical world already populated by non-human characters, strange beasts, and fruit that can grant any of an endless array of superpowers, it really feels like this flick goes further still with its far-fetched designs for new characters and creatures, and its concept for a dangerous villain whose abilities reshape the very landscape in awe-inspiring ways. From that foundation every vibe in Oda's story, and Kamisaka Hirohiko's subsequent screenplay, is stretched to their limit, as is also arguably true of suspension of disbelief as no notion seems too extreme to add into the mix. This feature is gleeful, unfettered make-believe. Yet by the same token, the scenario is employed to significantly raise the stakes for our heroes, and as we're given to wonder how the Straw Hats could possibly save the day, the drama herein is also elevated. The narrative is marvelously engaging and compelling, and downright captivating, as Nami is abducted by a deadly foe with tyrannical plans in mind. Strong as the character writing is as is almost always true, I wonder if the narrative and scene writing aren't actually the tightest that they've been in the movies up to this point.
That quite goes for Sakai Munehisa's direction, too, and it seems evident that every effort was made to ensure 'Strong world' was the best it could be on such a landmark occasion. The fantasy, drama, action, drama, and comedy are all deftly woven together, with one facet never overwhelming the others as all are brought forth in turn, and sometimes side by side. As if there could ever be any doubting them in the first place, it also comes across to me that the artists of Toei Animation turned in work that is its sharpest yet in the series. In every fashion the visual experience is impeccable, the finest to date for 'One Piece' in everything from the gorgeous backgrounds and environments, whatever their nature, to the incredibly rich and creative designs for all active elements; substantial consideration for lighting and shading, effects, and perspective, not to mention tremendous detail and texture; and epic, fast-paced, fluid action. All participants wanted to make this title one that would stun, and in various ways definitively stand out, and I think it ably achieves those goals.
True, at length the conflict is resolved in a manner that's not at all atypical, and I also don't think the device that features prominently in the final scene makes for as much of a profound moment as was intended. Were one so inclined, these and other sparing tidbits could be reasonably scrutinized. Be that as it may, the care that went into 'Strong world' is obvious, further extending to the great voice acting, music, sound, and editing that round out its construction. All told there really isn't any going wrong here. As a matter of personal preference one may have other 'One Piece' films they rate more highly, but there's not much disputing the fervent energy that was poured into this tenth theatrical installment, and for any distinction we might cite in terms of quality the difference is functionally meaningless. I had a terrific time watching, and I believe most anyone would who is receptive to anime and the genres at hand. If you have the chance to check out 'Strong world,' I'm pleased to give it my high recommendation!
